The meaning and worth of love, as a feeling, is that it…
““The meaning and worth of love, as a feeling, is that it really forces us, with all our being, to acknowledge for ANOTHER the same absolute central significance which, because of the power of our egoism, we are conscious of only in our own selves. Love is important not as one of our feelings, but as the transfer of all our interest in life from ourselves to another, as the shifting of the very centre of our personal life. This is characteristic of every kind of love, but predominantly of sexual love; it is distinguished from other kinds of love by greater intensity, by a more engrossing character, and by the possibility of a more complete overall reciprocity. Only this love can lead to the real and indissoluble union of two lives into one; only of it do the words of Holy Writ say: 'They shall be one flesh,' i.e., shall become one real being.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Love redirects personal focus from self‑interest to another, creating a deep, reciprocal bond that can unite two lives into one.
In simple terms: Love shifts interest from self to another, creating unity.
Key Takeaway
Cultivate self‑less love to deepen relationships.
Themes
love
self‑transcendence
unity
Mood
intimate
thoughtful
Type
philosophical
romantic
When to use this quote
- marriage
- parent‑child bond
- close friendships
- spiritual partnership
Key Concepts
egoism
reciprocity
sexual intimacy
Questions to Reflect On
- What does it mean to love beyond yourself?
- How can you balance self‑interest with love for another?
A Different Perspective
Intense love can lead to loss of individuality or dependency.